Why does this metronome sound more accurate than others?

PlayMetronome uses AudioContext.currentTime with a lookahead scheduler instead of setInterval. setInterval drifts 10–25ms per beat; the Web Audio API scheduler is accurate to within 1–2ms.

What time signatures are available?

4/4, 3/4, 6/8, 5/4, and 7/8. The first beat of each measure plays at a higher pitch to mark the downbeat.

Yes — click the Tap button or press Space while the metronome is stopped to tap in your tempo. The BPM is averaged from your last 8 taps.

Online Metronome — Free, Precise, No Drift

120

BPM

Time Signature

Sound

Volume

Timer

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Tempo Presets

Why metronome precision matters

Most browser-based metronomes use JavaScript's setInterval — which sounds fine until you've been practicing for 20 minutes and notice the beat subtly shifting. setInterval can drift by 10–25 milliseconds per beat depending on browser tab load. PlayMetronome uses the Web Audio API's AudioContext.currentTime with a lookahead scheduler: notes are queued 100ms ahead of time, so the actual audio event fires with sub-millisecond accuracy.

For serious practice, especially when working on subdivision feels or preparing for a recording session, that precision matters. A piano student drilling Hanon exercises at 120 BPM for 15 minutes needs the same reliability they'd get from a Wittner hardware metronome. Need to time your practice sessions? timer-hub.com is a good companion.

The tap tempo feature averages your last 8 taps — useful when learning a song and you want to find the exact tempo before you start practicing with the metronome. Once set, you can fine-tune with the slider or ±1 BPM buttons.

Does the metronome keep running if I switch tabs?

Yes. Web Audio API scheduling is not affected by tab visibility. The metronome continues running accurately even when the tab is backgrounded.

What does the accent on beat 1 sound like?

Beat 1 plays at a slightly higher pitch and louder volume than the other beats, making the downbeat clearly audible without being jarring. This applies to all time signatures.

Can I use this as a drum practice metronome?

Absolutely. The 5/4 and 7/8 options are useful for odd-meter practice. The hi-hat and rim shot sounds blend naturally with drum practice. Many drummers also use the practice timer to structure 5-minute focused segments.

What BPM range is available?

20 to 300 BPM. The slider covers the full range; use the ± buttons to nudge 1 BPM at a time when you need exact tempo control.